The Story of Planet Earth
Explore the major events that shaped Earth, from its formation to the world we know today.
4.5 Billion Years Ago
Earth formed from dust and gas surrounding the young Sun, beginning the long history of our planet.
Around 3.8 Billion Years Ago
Some of the earliest evidence of life dates to this period, when simple organisms may have existed in Earth’s oceans.
Around 2.4 Billion Years Ago
The Great Oxidation Event significantly increased oxygen in Earth’s atmosphere, transforming the planet and helping create conditions for more complex life.
Around 541 Million Years Ago
During the Cambrian Period, animal life rapidly diversified and many major groups appeared in the fossil record.
Around 300 Million Years Ago
Earth’s major landmasses came together to form the supercontinent Pangaea, joining regions that would later become today’s continents.
Around 66 Million Years Ago
A large asteroid struck Earth and triggered a mass extinction that ended the age of non-avian dinosaurs and eliminated many other species.
Around 300,000 Years Ago
Homo sapiens emerged in Africa and gradually spread across the planet, developing cultures, languages and societies.
Today
Earth is home to seven continents, vast oceans and billions of people connected by travel, culture and shared history.